Missouri House Speaker Pro Tem Rep. Jason Smith (R-Salem) issued a press release last week after the legislature required a do-over for the Oath of Office. Apparently, the first time around instead of pledging to support the United States and Missouri Constitutions, they incorrectly swore an oath to support government.

We take no issue with having to correct the oath. What we take issue with is the statement attached to the release. You see, in today’s world, politicians can’t pass up a chance to grandstand.

Rep. Smith wrote, “As conservatives who believe in limiting the size and influence of government and not in pledging oaths to support it, we felt it was important that we retake that oath.”

So, one of the leading members of Missouri’s state government felt a need to go on record saying he doesn’t support the very government to which he was elected?

He continues, “My colleagues and I want to make it clear that we are here to serve the will of the people and the Constitution, and not cater to the whims of a bloated government bureaucracy.”

We would hope all elected officials understand their duties are to this state and its people, but struggle with the second part of that sentence. After all, Jan. 9, 2013 marked the 10th anniversary of Republicans controlling both the Missouri House and Senate. During four of those 10 years, that legislative control was boosted by Republican Gov. Matt Blunt.

Our point is this: If there is, in fact, a “bloated government bureaucracy,” after 10 consecutive years in power it seems fair for Rep. Smith and his fellow Republicans to take some responsibility for that.

Gov. Jay Nixon doesn’t get off the hook, either. He delivered a masterfully written inaugural speech last week and in discussing the deep political divide of today took us back to the Civil War, when the state was “bitterly divided” with two state governments and two state capitals.

“That was hard politics,” Gov. Nixon said.

Indeed, today’s partisan atmosphere pales in comparison, though we also imagine Missourians of that time knew exactly where their leaders stood on key issues. Gov. Nixon spent much of his first term leading from behind, staying silent on key issues until after the legislature took action rather than engaging in a debate and helping craft policy. Changing that style, while certainly “hard politics,” would be welcome.

Missouri is at a crossroads. There are major questions to be answered about our state budget, about future economic development, transportation, investment in clean energy, funding for education, a possible expansion of Medicaid.